How to see hidden files in Windows 7 OS?

I was trying to locate a hidden file to rectify a software problem in my computer, I was unable to find it until I did the following in Windows 7 operating system.


1. Go to Start button and click "Control Panel"
2. Click the "Appearance and Personalization" link.
3. Go to "Folder Options" and select it.
4. Click the "View" tab in "Folder Options"
5. In the "Advance Settings", select "Show hidden files and folders" and click "OK" to save this setting.


Now you will see the hidden files in the folders. To keep it hidden, just deselect the "Show hidden files and folders". 


This works also fine in Windows Vista OS.

Via Microsoft.com.